Gerard Basset (1957-2019)

By Clinton Cawood

Published: 21 January, 2019

Tributes have been pouring in for Gerard Basset MS MW OBE as the global wine industry comes to terms with his death on 17 January.

He was best known for mentoring some of the UK’s best sommeliers, while picking up a long list of qualifications and accolades throughout his life. He was the first to simultaneously hold the Master of Wine, Master Sommelier, MBA Wine Business and MSc from the International Organisation of Vine and Wine, and was awarded an OBE after winning the World Sommelier Championships in 2010.

In business, he co-founded Hotel du Vin, followed by TerraVina with his wife, Nina.

The Court of Master Sommeliers EU posted the following on Twitter: “He has been a mentor and inspiration to so many, a shining example of courtesy, humility and professionalism that we all should aspire to.”

“A moment of quiet reflection and a long period of respect is in order for what can truly be called a tragedy for the wine world: the loss to cancer of Gerard Basset, world's best sommelier in 2010 and a mentor and example to so many,” said Jancis Robinson MW.

Hong Kong-based Jeannie Cho Lee MW said: “He embodied the best aspects of the wine industry - the spirit of sharing, giving, inspiring & seeking excellence.”

As Tim Atkin MW summarised: “One of the truly great wine people. Humble, talented, funny and kind.”

A crowdfunding campaign has been set up on Unbound to publish his completed memoirs, Tasting Victory, with any surplus funding poised to go towards establishing an award or scholarship in Gerard’s name.

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